Classical and Romantic Composers Comparative Analysis Project

Deadline Monday 1 May

Objective: Students will research one composer from the Classical period and
one composer from the Romantic period, analyze their works, and create a
presentation highlighting the similarities and contrasts in their musical
compositions.

Project Description:
Students will select one composer from the Classical period and one from the
Romantic period from the provided list.
They will research their background, musical styles, and the context in which
their works were created. Students will analyze two works from each composer,
focusing on melody, harmony, rhythm, and structure. They will create a
presentation (PowerPoint, Google Slides, or other preferred format) showcasing
their findings.

List of Composers:
Classical Period:
1. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
2. Ludwig van Beethoven (early works)
3. Franz Joseph Haydn
4. Christoph Willibald Gluck
5. Franz Schubert (early works)

Romantic Period:
1. Frederic Chopin
2. Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
3. Richard Wagner
4. Johannes Brahms
5. Franz Liszt
Instructions:
1. Choose one composer from the Classical period and one from the
Romantic period.
2. Research their background, including their upbringing, musical
influences, and career highlights.
3. Analyze two works from each composer, focusing on melody,
harmony, rhythm, and structure.
4. Identify similarities and contrasts between the works of the two
composers.
5. Create a presentation to showcase your research and analysis.
6. Cite all sources used in the project, using an appropriate citation
style.

Rubric:
Criteria Points
1. Background Information (20 points)
● Comprehensive overview of each composer's upbringing,
musical influences, and career highlights (10 points for each
composer)
2. Work Analysis (40 points)
● Detailed analysis of melody, harmony, rhythm, and structure for
two works for each composer (10 points for each composer)
● Clear identification of similarities and contrasts between the
works of the two composers (20 points)
3. Presentation (30 points)
● Clear, engaging, and well-structured presentation (10 points)
● Effective use of visual aids (10 points)
● Appropriate length (5-10 minutes) and pacing (10 points)
4. Citation and Source Use (10 points)
● Proper citation of all sources using an appropriate citation style
(5 points)
● Use of reliable and diverse sources (5 points)
Total Points: 100